Caister Christmas lights display cancelled after safety row

A long-standing tradition of lighting up Caister High Street was halted after Norfolk County Council imposed a £10,000 charge for the installation, following an investigation into last year’s display.

The council said last year's lights did not meet electrical safety standards, with concerns over faulty connections that posed a risk of electric shock.

For years, a local electrical firm had provided the installation service free of charge, but this year Caister Parish Council was told that only a council-approved contractor could carry out the work.

READ MORE: Safety fears spark £10k dispute over Christmas lights in village

Despite the setback, Caister businesses have stepped in to ensure the village remains festive.

Many have agreed to light up at least one of their shop windows throughout December.

Caister Parish Council chairman Kevin Wood. (Image: Archant) READ MORE: 'Caught in the crossfire' - Electricians hit back in row over Christmas lights

Parish council chairman Kevin Wood said: "Sadly, there will be no Christmas lights on the lampposts this year, but we are Caister, and we will still do our best to make the village bright."

The village's Christmas lights switch-on event, along with the annual lantern procession, will still go ahead on December 7, drawing around 1,000 people each year.

Mr Wood added: "We have some great businesses in Caister if your name is not on the list it's not too late to join as we light up Caister throughout December.

"Thank you and if you can always support local businesses."

In the wake of the dispute, local firm Batchelors Electricians has previously said they found themselves "caught in the crossfire" between the parish and county councils.

Director Rob Batchelor said all the parish council's Christmas lighting installations, although temporary, were tested to the current regulations.